The Oakland Athletics finally snapped their 10-year long Opening Day losing streak “curse” with an old fashioned beat-down of the Texas Rangers, final score of 8-0. The A’s delivered in every facet of the game and showed us the type of team they could be this season. Here’s what we’ve learned about the new-look A’s of 2015.
It’s Always Sonny In Oakland.
Sonny Gray picked up right were he left off in game 162 of the 2014 regular season against the Texas Rangers. The 25-year-old right-hander, making his second Opening Day start in as many seasons, took a no-hit bid through the seventh inning before allowing the only hit of the Rangers’ night to Ryan Rua in the eighth inning. Gray struck out three on 98 pitches in eight innings of work, walking one and hitting one. His masterful performance reinforced what the organization and fans already knew. Sonny is a big game pitcher and he has great taste in socks.
The New Kids On The Block Got It, The Right Stuff
The first time was a great time, the second time was a blast, the third time was a splash as Oakland’s newest faces made a big impression on the A’s faithful. Ben Zobrist’s first hit as an Athletic was a two-run bomb, his second hit was a double. Billy Butler DH’d and contributed an RBI, not to mention a memorable country breakfast moment.
#Athletics “Country Breakfast” pic.twitter.com/SwUYOoKqtK
— Casey Pratt (@CaseyPrattCSN) April 7, 2015
Brett Lawrie and Marcus Semien contributed a hit each. Ike Davis had himself a night defensively that included an unassisted double play. When was the last time anybody said that about an A’s first baseman?
Its All About D-Fence
Billy Beane tore down last season’s entire infield and rebuilt it in a Dr. Frankenstein-like manner. He replaced the big power, poor defense infield with an infield built around solid defense and contact hitting. This years A’s will manufacture runs, steal bases, and, of course, get on base. Monday night’s game was a clear indication of that with Ike Davis making gold-glove caliber plays, Lawrie picking it at third, and even the “veteran” Eric Sogard getting into the defensive highlight reel.
A’s Fans Are Here To StAy
A pleasant constant however, was the Oakland faithful who showed up in full force on Opening Night, lining the outfield with witty banners and chanting for their beloved Stephen Vogt. A’s fans are truly like no other.
Let’s Do It All Over Tomorrow
Tuesday night, the A’s will send newly acquired right-hander Jesse Hahn to the mound to face the Rangers. Last season with the Padres, Hahn posted a 7-4 record with a 3.07 ERA and a 3.40 FIP. He will face off against Colby Lewis who has pitched generally well against Oakland in his career.
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